4 Reasons Why You Should Join a Professional Organization

It’s up to us to continue our education. I highly recommend joining an association and taking advantage of resources that will make an impact on your career. When you are a member of a professional organization, there are opportunities to join committees, learn from colleagues and stay informed about industry news and best practices. Here is a list of reasons that any public relations professional should consider when deciding whether or not to join organizations like PRSA.

1. Opportunity to Learn About Yourself

Joining a professional organization presents many opportunities to learn more about yourself, your goals and your strengths. Within the organization, you can take advantage of informative webinars and workshops and hear from people in similar fields. These meetings give access to people in your industry and allow you to familiarize yourself with the public relations community. My favorite resource is learning from keynote speakers in the industry. This personal insight helps me decide what I like and what I don’t like in the field.

2. Career Development

As part of a professional community, your personal visibility increases. People in your profession know who you are. In addition, many professional organizations offer training and workshops that come with industry certifications. Future employers may also seek out individuals whose education is not solely dependent on college studies – people who continue to learn and grow within the profession.

3. Building Your Resume

Professional organizations often have career resources available such as tips on how to build your resume and cover letter writing. Listing a professional organization can also be beneficial to a resume. This involvement tells future employers that you are active in your career and are interested in staying connected in your profession.

4. Networking

Everyone knows that having connections with industry professionals is a key element to landing a job. Meeting potential colleagues, making connections and building relationships will all help when you are applying for jobs. At meetings, you are given the opportunity to share ideas, ask for advice, become a speaker or become a member of a committee. There is no better support than from those in your field who can offer personal insights and share experiences.